The Roads Minister Richard Holden MP visited the North and East Melton Mowbray Distributor (NEMMDR) Site Compound to see works on the scheme underway. 

The Minister met key representatives behind the project, including Councillor Joe Orson, Leader of Melton Borough Council, Councillor Deborah Taylor, Deputy Leader of Leicestershire County Council, and the contractors, Galliford Try. 

The new road will divert heavy traffic away from Melton town centre, improve air quality and boost tourism - backed by £49.5 million in Government funding. This is part of £114.2 million in total investment between the Government, local Council and private investors.

Planned works on the scheme will include a new single carriageway and junctions, alongside new cycle and footway paths running by the new road.

The MMDR is expected to generate over £144 million in economic benefits and support more than 3,400 new jobs, and is expected to open in Summer 2025.

Alicia Kearns MP, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Melton said: 

"It's fantastic to have the Roads Minister here in Melton so he can see why Cllr Joe Orson and I fought so hard to ensure the MMDR went ahead. It's such a good feeling to see diggers in the ground, but we do need further support from the Government and today is a great chance to ask for that further financial package to deliver the Southern part of the bypass." 

Richard Holden MP, Roads Minister said: 

“For too many years, Melton has been plagued by disruptive and polluting traffic congestion which has made it difficult to reach its historic town centre, grow our economy, and savour its delicious pork pies and Stilton cheese. 

“That’s why we’re investing nearly £50 million to boost local connectivity and tackle congestion, supporting more than 3,400 jobs to help Britain’s ‘Rural Capital of Food’ truly reach its full potential.” 

Cllr Joe Orson, Leader of Melton Borough Council said: 

“After fifty plus years of waiting residents can now finally see work on the MMDR N/E has started. Delighted to meet Richard Holden MP to show him how the £49.5 million government funding will reduce congestion and improve the air quality for those who live and work in the Town. I also took the opportunity to lobby the Minister as extra funding is needed for the Southern Section due to Construction Inflation.” 

Alicia asked the Minister for an update on further financial Government support for the MMDR in Transport Questions recently - you can watch here.